goshawk

n. [ AS. gōshafuc, lit., goosehawk; or Icel. gāshaukr. See Goose, and Hawk the bird. ] (Zool.) Any large hawk of the genus Astur, of which many species and varieties are known. The European (Astur palumbarius) and the American (A. atricapillus) are the best known species. They are noted for their powerful flight, activity, and courage. The Australian goshawk (A. Novæ-Hollandiæ) is pure white. [ 1913 Webster ]